Luke 2:8 to 10 (NIV) And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.

There are two different characters in the Bible narratives about the birth of Jesus. One, the Shepherds to whom the Angel of God appeared, to tell them of the birth of Jesus. And two, King Herod who wanted to kill the baby Jesus. After looking at both parties, what they had in regards to wealth, charter, integrity and God’s favour, I have come to this conviction, ‘I would rather be a Shepherd than a Herod.’

Although King Herod may have had a throne and riches, the Shepherds had a powerful lasting testimony.

The Shepherds praised God from the heart, but Herod only gave lips service.

The Shepherds were filled with joy at the birth of Jesus, but Herod was filled with hatred and hidden agendas.

The Shepherds spread the goods news about Jesus, but Herod wanted to silence the spreading of gospel.

The Shepherds saw the glory of God shine all around them, but Herod lived in spiritual darkness.

The Shepherds obeyed Gods word, but Herod disobeyed God.

The Shepherds are blessed with heavenly riches, but Herod died penniless and all alone.

My friend, no matter how you may put it, I would rather be a Shepherd than a Herod. I would rather have a testimony for God and live for Him, spreading the good news about Jesus Christ and be blessed with heavenly riches than die in my sins and in spiritual poverty while living like a Herod, filled with enmity towards God. I would rather be like the Shepherds who witnessed His glory, obeyed His word, seen their King and spread the good news about Jesus, yes I would rather be a Shepherd than a Herod.